Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Crispy Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a casual family meal, or looking for a tasty appetizer, these fritters deliver both flavor and satisfaction. The combination of tender salt cod and zesty aioli creates a unique taste experience that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these fritters in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of salt cod and fresh herbs gives each bite a burst of flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal that pairs well with various sides.
• Unique Twist: Stand out from traditional fritters by incorporating salt cod, making your dish memorable.
• Zesty Dipping Sauce: The lemon garlic aioli elevates the fritters, adding creaminess and zing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wire rack
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even frying for perfectly crispy fritters.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills or mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter consistency when mixing wet and dry ingredients.
• Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off the fritters, keeping them crispy.

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

• 1 lb salt cod fillets, soaked in cold water for at least 12 hours (changing water several times)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Lemon Garlic Aioli:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Step 1: Prepare the Salt Cod

Once the salt cod has been soaked, drain it well and flake it into small pieces. Gently remove any remaining bones to ensure a smooth texture in your fritters.

Step 2: Make the Fritter Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped parsley and dill to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients while whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your fritters light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Salt Cod

Gently fold in the flaked salt cod into your batter. Ensure it’s evenly distributed without breaking it down too much.

Step 5: Fry the Fritters

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.

Step 6: Cook Fritters

Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Make the Aioli

While the fritters are frying, prepare your aioli. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your warm salt cod fritters immediately alongside the zesty lemon garlic aioli for dipping. Enjoy this delightful dish!

How to Serve Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Serving salt cod fritters with lemon garlic aioli can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious bites.

As an Appetizer

• Start the meal with these crispy fritters served warm alongside the zesty aioli for dipping. They make an excellent conversation starter at any gathering.

In a Sandwich

• Place fritters in a soft roll with fresh greens and a drizzle of aioli. This creates a delightful sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair the fritters with a light salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the fritters beautifully.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Add salt cod fritters to your charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers. They provide a unique flavor that enhances the overall spread.

How to Perfect Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

To ensure your salt cod fritters turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak Properly: Make sure to soak the salt cod for at least 12 hours, changing the water several times. This helps remove excess salt and ensures tenderness.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough fritters instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at about 350°F (175°C) while frying. This temperature ensures even cooking and prevents greasy fritters.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh parsley and dill into the batter for enhanced flavor. Fresh herbs elevate the taste and aroma of your fritters.
• Drain Well: After frying, place the fritters on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain away effectively without making them soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Pairing side dishes with your salt cod fritters adds depth to your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Crispy Potato Wedges: Oven-baked or fried potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent crunchy side that complements the softness of the fritters.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the fritters.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon juice, cucumbers, and tomatoes offers a nutritious option that pairs well with fried foods.
5. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices can serve as both a snack and side dish that brings additional protein to your meal.
6. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into leftover aioli or enjoying alongside the fritters for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not soaking the salt cod long enough: Ensure you soak the salt cod for at least 12 hours and change the water several times. This step is crucial for removing excess salt and achieving the right flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough fritters rather than light, fluffy ones.
• Crowding the frying pan: Avoid adding too many fritters at once in the skillet. This lowers the oil temperature and prevents proper frying, resulting in soggy fritters.
• Skipping the herbs: Fresh parsley and dill add essential flavor to your fritters. Don’t skip them; they enhance both taste and presentation.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your aioli before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference to ensure it pairs well with the fritters.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

• Place fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-friendly bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place fritters on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: For quick reheating, place fritters on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fritters and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli:

What is the best way to soak salt cod?

Soak salt cod in cold water for at least 12 hours, changing the water several times, to remove excess salt effectively.

Can I make Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, fry them ahead of time and reheat as needed.

What can I serve with Salt Cod Fritters?

These fritters pair well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a seafood platter alongside other appetizers.

How do I know when my fritters are done frying?

Fritters should be golden brown and float slightly when they’re cooked through. Use a thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts

Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli are not only delicious but also versatile. These crispy bites make an excellent appetizer or light meal that can be customized with various herbs or spices based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; you might just discover your new favorite dish!

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Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 fritters 1x

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Description

Crispy Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli are a delightful seafood treat that promises to elevate your dining experience. These fritters combine the tender, flaky goodness of salt cod with a zesty lemon garlic aioli, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect as an appetizer for dinner parties or as a casual snack for family gatherings, these fritters are versatile and easy to prepare. With fresh herbs adding depth and the creamy aioli providing the perfect dip, this dish is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Enjoy these savory bites warm and watch them disappear quickly!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb salt cod fillets, soaked in cold water for at least 12 hours (changing water several times)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Soak salt cod in cold water for at least 12 hours, changing the water several times. Drain and flake into small pieces.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in chopped parsley and dill.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk; then mix into dry ingredients until just combined.
4. Gently fold in flaked salt cod.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides (about 2-3 minutes each).
6. Place fritters on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
7. For the aioli: Combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, lemon zest in a bowl; season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve warm fritters with the lemon garlic aioli on the side.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 fritters (90g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 25mg